Which U.S. Army regiment is responsible for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Memorial Day?

The U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment is responsible for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Memorial Day.

The regiment is better known by its nickname, “The Old Guard.” It is the Army’s oldest active-duty infantry unit, tracing its lineage to 1784. Its ceremonial duties include guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and participating in funerals, state ceremonies, and national commemorations.

The tomb guard assignment began in 1948. Soldiers selected for the duty undergo demanding training in uniform standards, ceremonial movement, weapon handling, and knowledge of the tomb’s history.

Memorial Day is one of the occasions when the regiment’s public role is especially visible. The Old Guard also operates the U.S. Army’s official ceremonial unit, including the Fife and Drum Corps, but that musical unit is distinct from the sentries who guard the tomb.